Our History

NINKASI Rentals & Finance was founded in 2017 by Andrew Thompson and Peter Godwin. Building on their previous experience with ECasks and Close Brewery Rentals, which they co-founded in 2006, they revolutionised the way breweries procured, used, and serviced casks and kegs. Their innovative rental model enabled breweries to grow quickly with low entry costs, improving cash flow and helping to fuel the growth of the craft beer sector.

In 2017, Ninkasi began by offering high-quality conical fermenters, quickly establishing a reputation for providing top-tier equipment to the growing craft beer industry. By 2018, we expanded our range to include dish-bottom vessels, initially designed to assist wineries in need of specialised fermentation solutions.

As the business grew, Ninkasi added tailored finance options, giving breweries the flexibility to grow without heavy upfront costs.

In 2020, we introduced hop rockets and pilot brew kits, supporting breweries with tools to experiment and refine their brewing processes. By 2022, we launched CO₂  Capture systems, enabling breweries to reduce their carbon footprint and operate more sustainably.

What began in the brewery industry has since expanded to serve a diverse range of businesses in the drinks sector, including distilleries and soft drink producers.

In 2024, we partnered with Mainland Canning to support our expansion into Europe. This partnership allows us to offer flexible, cost-effective rental solutions across the continent and further strengthens our commitment to supporting the growing European beverage industry.

As for the name, NINKASI is inspired by the Sumerian goddess of beer—an apt tribute to the heart of our business.